Running Low on Fuel? HOW TO ENTERTAIN KIDS DESPITE FATIGUE
After working all day, keeping up with your kids can be tough. Sometimes, you feel like you are working a second job. While you still need to be physically and emotionally present, there are ways to exert less energy and still play with kids of all different ages. If your baby is under 1 year old, they are too young to play by themselves, but you can still play while not physically overdoing it. Resting on the floor with your baby and showing them some sensory toys or reading to them is both entertaining and educational. Another great option for your infant is to blow bubbles for them — they will love watching the bubbles float and dance through the air. If your toddler is on the go and walking, they may require a little more to stay adequately entertained. Try sitting on the floor and singing nursery rhymes. You can also let your child explore objects in the room while you build upon their language by explaining what different items are. Since you’re sleepy, why not pretend your toddler’s stuffed animal is sleepy too? Have your child “put teddy to bed.” If you’re lucky, you may be able to get in a few moments of shut-eye too! If your child is 2–4 years old, they might love using their imagination! Try having a picnic with them in the living room (you can even invite their stuffed animals to join!). Playing doctor is also a fun option and opportunity to be lazy and sleepy if you get to play the part of the sickly patient. You may also get out the building blocks and create with them — this requires little physical exertion and is a great developmentally appropriate activity.
athon Is Awesome ND HOW TO GET NNING AGAIN
every day. I started running when I was 13 years old and ran cross country and track in high school and in college.
Starting again when you have stopped running for a while can be difficult. I stopped for a couple of years while I was in college due to many injuries from running at the collegiate level; however, I was able to jump back into running. I have learned that the quiet time allows me mental space to organize my thoughts for the day, solve problems, and foster a positive mental attitude to face the day. I also like to break a sweat, clear my head, release toxins from my body, keep a little more toned, and hopefully keep my weight in check.
While running is tough on the joints, muscles, and feet, the positives still outweigh any aches and pains for me. I highly recommend starting with a walk and then maybe a jog if getting out and moving is something you want to do! The positive benefits will keep you coming back, and you will be thankful you put in the time while the cooler spring weather is still with us!
If your child is 4 years or older, they are likely very active. What about hosting an indoor obstacle course where you get to be the timer? All you have to do is gather a few items from around the house and use furniture and pillows to build a course. Think of incorporating activities such as having them crawl under the dining room table, walk across a blanket bridge, or hop over the pillow rocks. If you’re feeling artsy and would prefer to make something with your child, you can even just sit down at the table and break out some homemade play dough. Most importantly, be creative and never feel guilty for needing to scale back a bit after having a long day. With these interactive ideas and tips, you will make it through the tough days and still feel like the super-parent you are!
–Lisa Jones
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